10/10/2026
Newly restored, this is one of the earliest photos we hold of Henfield Station, from around 1880 by Brighton photographers Dawson & Co.
As can be seen, the Station Road area was still rural at this time. In the earlier days after opening as a single track line in July 1861, the entrance was a steep - and no doubt unforgiving - set of 30 steps from the road bridge by the Station Hotel. Its nicely landscaped replacement entrance must have been a relief, particularly on icy days!
At right, the engine shed and some trucks can be seen, and beyond the then newly built steam corn mill. At least 9 people in total can be seen on the platform, while some washing hangs to dry at left by the station entrance. Perhaps the woman sat on the wheelbarrow holds a baby.
Even by 1920, the station had as many staff as two clerks, a signalman, a porter and a stationmaster. Some of the staff of the '80s are no doubt seen here - perhaps the top hatted gent was the Station Master. By the time it closed in the days of lesser traffic, the roles had merged somewhat and the station master at Steyning also had responsibility for Bramber and Henfield.
Find the original faded print in the comments.
